by Ruth Belena

Created on: October 10, 2008   Last Updated: January 14, 2009

Eczema is also known as atopic dermatitis. It's an allergic reaction that causes itchy inflamed skin. Eczema is quite common in children, and among young people with allergies, hay fever or asthma. Eczema can continue into adulthood, but symptoms will be less acute.

Children can develop eczema from an early age. It will first appear as a red rash, raised from the skin. The skin will feel dry, cracked and itchy. There could be some crusting, flaking or blistering. Chronic eczema causes itching all over the body, especially during night time.

An important part in preventing outbreaks of eczema to avoid exposure to some of the common eczema triggers. Pollen, mold, dust mites, certain foods, and other irritants can act as a trigger for eczema, particularly for someone with a family history of allergies.

Contact with pets and other animals may cause a reaction, and some synthetic fibers, or wool fabrics, may also have an adverse affect.

It is also advisable for anyone with eczema to stop using soaps, skin care products or cosmetics containing perfume, and to avoid skin contact with any substance with chemical ingredients.

Medical treatment for eczema is available, and can relieve the itching and soreness. Eczema treatment will not cure the condition completely, but if tablets are prescribed, these will help to block the release of chemicals during an allergic reaction.

Affected skin can be soothed by eczema creams that will minimize itching and provide relief. Eczema creams also assist the healing process, and reduce the amount of irritation. By removing the tendency to scratch, eczema creams also help to prevent further damage to the skin.

Eczema causes extreme dryness of the skin, so moisturizing is an important part of treatment for eczema. Manuka Honey has a natural moisturizing effect, and its natural properties reduce inflammation of the skin. Manuka Honey is used as an ingredient in some eczema creams, with excellent results.

Scientific research has shown that the application of Manuka honey to the skin actually heals the damage and helps to regenerate new skin. Dry and cracked skin is very vulnerable to infection by bacteria, and the anti-bacterial qualities in Manuka honey eliminate the risk of further skin infection.

A healthy immune system is important for prevention of eczema, so a well balanced diet is required. Regular exercise will help reduce stress and anxiety, colds, flu, and other infections that could cause an outbreak of eczema, but severe changes in temperature, such as exposure to cold wind or to extreme heat, should be avoided.

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